Rudolf in many ways cannot be considered an effective ruler, but he was one of those early Rennaisance kings who was a great promoter of philosophy and the arts. As such he also got along well with those of other religious persuasions.

Rudolf is also known to have counseled in person with the Maharal of Prague - Rabbi Judah Lowe, who legend relates, was the creator of the Golem.

The crown of Rudolph, now the Austrian Imperial crown, can be seen here.